Using Corsets as part of Scoliosis Correction

I happily stumbled across this fantastic publication today. Published quite recently (early 2012), it is a study on the use of corsets (in conjunction with wearing weighted backpacks and regular physiotherapy/ exercise) to considerably improve the scoliosis in this adult patient.

NB: these results may not be typical (especially since there’s a variation in the severity of scoliosis from the start) and the use of corsets (either standard sized or custom) may not work miracles. But as the author mentioned, corsets or “textile braces” may provide a method of reshaping the ribs (and through this offer some secondary effects such as improved breathing) to a point, which is not normally possible through surgery.

Lumbostat back brace, image from ortotika.cz

Depending on one’s personal situation, a scoliosis patient may find wearing a corset more discreet, more comfortable and more affordable than wearing a rigid brace of hard plastic or steel plates. However, effectiveness in treatment may vary. A skilled corset maker should be able to take measurements of each side of the body and create a special asymmetric corset made to stabilize (and in some cases, as you can read in the article, even possibly correct) the curvature of the spine.

Edit: a number of scoliosis patients have confirmed that some medical braces are very similar in shape and form to a corset (medical corset or otherwise). Do click the picture on the right to see more examples of back braces, some of which give up to 5″ reduction in the waist in order to keep the spine immobile.

*Please note that this article is strictly for information purposes and not intended to replace the advice of a licensed medical professional. Please talk to your doctor if you’d like to start wearing a corset for any reason.*

dave44

I have worn girdles and waist cinchers since I was a teenager. I like the feeling of support and control they give me. But, I’ve always felt as though I needed something else. I’ve tried longline bras, high-waisted girdles, all-in-ones, and waist cinchers to help control my middle. But until I discovered your wonderful videos on YouTube, I never so much as considered a corset. I always assumed they’d be scratchy and uncomfortable.

Nothing could be farther from the truth.

After watching many of your informational videos, I decided to give corsets a try. I purchased a WT-007 from Corset-Story. I’ve been wearing it a month, and have already achieved a 3″ waist reduction. It feels as comfortable as a hug, and holds in my waist better than I had imagined. An unexpected benefit is how it greatly reduces back pain from my herniated disc, allowing me to remain standing longer than otherwise possible. And it helps me control the size of the meals I eat, so I’m already beginning to lose some extra pounds. Wow! I just wish I’d discovered corsets years ago!

Hi Dave44 – wow! That’s fantastic that you have had such a positive experience with corsets. I’m so glad that my little videos have helped give you to courage to try a corset. It’s true that one can never really understand what a corset is like until they try one for themselves! It’s wonderful that you’ve been able to reduce pain, and shift toward a healthier weight. Thank you for your kind comment, and best wishes.

Hi Francesca, I’m honestly not sure. Have you had the rods in place? I would highly recommend talking to your doctor, chiropractor and/or orthopedic technician before starting corseting and see what they say. Then I would go to a corsetiere that knows how to pattern and construct a corset for asymmetries, such as Contour Corsets. Best wishes!

[…] wearing back braces as a mode of therapy for scoliosis or other congenital skeletal issues? Yes, and these braces can reduce the waist several inches, and also put pressure on the ribcage much like a corset does – and this is all under medical […]

[…] well-fitted asymmetric corset may relieve back pain from scoliosis or past injury, or possibly even partially correct asymmetry over time. Here are the few corsetieres I know who have created corsets for asymmetric clients in the […]

[…] might be more supportive for people with upper back pain, or spine misalignment like scoliosis. Click here to read an article about a middle-age scoliosis patient who used a standard-sized overbust corset […]

[…] years. Corsets can even be made that can aid in correcting scoliosis over time. (Lucy has a short article on this subject.) A master corsetiere should be commissioned for a scoliosis support corset, as the […]

Disclaimer:

The entire contents of this website (as well as the contents in Lucy Corsetry's Youtube videos, and on other social media) are based upon the research, opinions and personal experience of Lucy Corsetry and others within the corset community.

Please note that the content on this site is provided for information and sometimes entertainment purposes, and it is not intended as medical advice, nor does it replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified medical physician. The information herein is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any ailment.

Lucy Corsetry strongly recommends that you consult with your trusted healthcare professional(s) before purchasing or using a corset for any reason, and ensure that your health and well-being is monitored regularly.

Although some individuals may use corsets for therapeutic or corrective purposes, you should ensure that you yourself are in good physical condition before pursuing corset wear, and also understand that any form of body modification is not without risks.

If you purchase or wear a corset for any reason, whether aesthetic, therapeutic or otherwise, you agree that you do so at your own risk, i.e. you agree that you are voluntarily participating in such activities, you assume all risk of injury to yourself, and you agree to release and discharge Lucy Corsetry from any and all claims or causes of action, known or unknown, arising out of Lucy Corsetry's negligence.